Belmadi backing

FORMER Scotland defender Paul Ritchie believes Celtic triallist Djamel Belmadi has the skill to be a big hit at Parkhead.

The Algerian international has arrived in Glasgow to try to impress Hoops boss Gordon Strachan, who has just signed Poland striker Maciej Zurawski for £2 million.

Dundee United defender Ritchie played with Belmadi when the former Marseille and Celta Vigo midfielder was on loan at Manchester City in 2003.

Ritchie said "I have no doubt he would make Celtic a better team if Gordon Strachan gets him on board he's quality."

Rangers have signed 21-year-old Argentine striker Federico Nieto on loan until January. He scored nine goals in 11 games for Almagro.